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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021
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What Makes
Love
LAST?
TAEKWONDO
YOUR SOLUTION TO LIFE’S Many CHALLENGES
NEW YEAR
Better You
l a o G g n i t t Se
Essentials IN 2021
12 TIPS for Being Your BEST SELF
PHOTO BY BETH GRAEME PHOTOGRAPHY
Get back to the activities you love with care from our friendly orthopaedic team. It’s easy to see the experts at MedStar Orthopaedic Institute at St. Mary’s. With fellowship training in sports medicine, joint replacement, and shoulder and elbow surgery, our surgeons at MedStar Orthopaedic Institute at St. Mary’s are ready to help you get back to living your life. Whether it’s a sudden injury or the aches and pains of aging, our team partners with you to find solutions that make sense for you. Let us help make your every day better.
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Prioritize Your Primary Care Don’t Delay Your Potential Diagnosis and Treatment From managing chronic conditions to providing annual physicals, there’s one medical provider who will be in your corner through it all. Make sure that you have a primary care team you can trust every step of the way. With a complete range of precautionary measures in place, our office is a safe place to make progress on your personal health and wellness. Schedule your appointment today. UMCharlesRegional.org/PrimaryTeam
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ON THE COVER .COM MAN DWO YLAN NMAR HER SOUT
NEWK! LOO L STILE! FRE 2021 ARY EBRU RY/F JANUA
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LoLAvSeT?
DO WON K E TA
R YOU ION y UT SOL E’S Man IF ES TO L ALLENG CH R YEA NEW er You
Bett TeinIgPYoS ur 12 for B SELF
A Community Publication Proudly Inspiring, Educating & Connecting Southern Maryland Women Since 2007.
T BES
al Go ting t Se
Esse
n
TO PHO
PHY GRA OTO E PH RAEM TH G BY BE
021
IN 2 tials
Publisher Oda Solms Editor Rachel Lytle
Southern Maryland Woman Owner of Black Belt Academy Kyle Webber learned at a young age how Taekwondo can be used to solve life’s many challenges. As a father of six now raising his own children, his passion for studying the technique of self-defense only continues to grow, especially due to his young daughters. Flip to page 21 to learn the tenets of the trade and to find out if martial arts might be the right fit for you as well.
Graphic Design Dave Schindler Dana Foody Photography Beth Graeme Photography Distribution Christian Solms Carlisa Kent John Cook
IN THIS ISSUE 9 17 19 20 24 27
How to Take Control of Your Fears Goal Setting Essentials in 2021
Every issue produced in loving memory of Melissa Solms-Baruth
SOUTHERN MARYLAND WOMAN MAGAZINE PO Box 1656,Leonardtown, MD 20650
What Makes Love Last?
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New Year, Better You – 12 Tips for Being Your Best Self
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SENIOR PORTRAITS SENIOR PORTRAITS BE A PART OF THE MOST SOUGHT-AFTER
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Beth Graeme, CPP, Owner / 22760 Washington St #1 I Leonardtown, MD 20650 301-475-0303 / / HTTP://BETHGRAEME.PHOTOGRAPHY
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Expert cancer care close to what matters most. Introducing MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center brings unmatched medical expertise, the latest therapies, and research to the region – providing the best possible care close to where our patients live and work. Our cancer specialists offer tomorrow’s treatment options today and work collaboratively to develop individualized care plans for each patient.
Meet our Nationally-Recognized Cancer Team Our experts include a diverse group of nationally and internationally renowned specialists for many forms of cancers, including but not limited to brain, breast, gastrointestinal, head and neck, lung, and prostate.
We work tirelessly to prevent, detect, treat, and cure cancer. Our Institute provides access to a wealth of groundbreaking treatment options all under the same roof that are designed to improve patient outcomes and more importantly, offer hope. From immunotherapy, to precision medicine and targeted therapies, our specialists use the latest advancements in cancer care, including: •
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health&wellness By Deborah Duley, MSW, LMSW
Leap and the Net Will Appear I first heard this said by Dr. Maya Angelou, whom I adore, many years ago (probably 25) and it has always stuck with me. In fact, it’s become something that I live by personally and encourage clients to remember when they’re afraid. Clients come to us for many reasons; feeling increased anxiety, difficulty getting over a bad relationship, unsure of what to do or where to go. In all of the reason’s women seek therapy, the theme we see over and over is FEAR; fear of leaving, fear of staying, fear of trying, fear of giving up, fear of change. As we’ve determined before, anxiety is fear on crack, so it makes sense that when you’re feeling fear, you’re usually also feeling some anxiety. This is where we come in. We’re the
WHERE YOUR
story
IS OUR STORY! Empowered Connections is excited to announce their 2nd location, now in Dunkirk to offer more care and support for our community
fear slayers! Seriously though, we’ve fought this battle over and over and know how to defeat it.
The best way to control your fear is to make it your property – to take ownership and decisive action. And that’s why this cool — albeit brief — mantra comes in handy: leap and the net will appear. What does this mean? Well, simply put, act now before you see the result because things always have a way of working out. Unsure of what your boss will say when you ask her for a raise? Ask anyways! Afraid of what his family will say if you WELCOMING NEW THERAPISTS Francesca Orfila, MSW, LMSW Seeing girls & teen girls in Dunkirk Mindy Hill, LGPC Seeing girls & teen girls in Leonardtown
Specialized counseling services for women and girls starting at 8 years old
Schedule a session by calling 301-690-0779 Ext 700 or emailing us at hello@empoweredconnections.net 25482 Point Lookout Road | Suite 201A | Leonardtown, MD 2972 Penwick Lane | Suite 101 | Dunkirk, MD
divorce their son even though you’ve been miserable for years? Do it anyways! Scared to send in that application for the course you’ve been eyeing forever even though you know in your heart it will change your life? Send it in! I am sure you’re thinking, ‘how easy to say that.’ I get it. Things are always easier to say than do. But here is what I’ve learned: Every time I’ve taken a chance, a risk, made a jump … it ALWAYS worked out. Every. Single. Time.
Success is the direct result of multiple failures and imperfect actions done over and over. Now, did it work out the way I had envisioned it each time? Nope. But most of the time, it was even better than I could have ever imagined it. The best way to control your fear is to make it your property – to take ownership and decisive action. Successful people will affirm this over and over. They take risks and actions even when they’re unsure of the result. Success is the direct result of multiple failures and imperfect actions done over and over. Repeat that again: success is the direct result of multiple failures and imperfect actions done over and over. Once you take action, it’s like the universe has made you some steps to show where you need to go next, illuminating your path. The extra good news? We will be walking next to you while you’re doing this brave, hard work of creating the life you deserve. So my loves, when you’re on the edge of an important
decision (or even a simple decision) and you feel paralyzed by all the ‘how’s’ and ‘what if’s,’ walk to the edge of the cliff, hold your nose, close your eyes and freaking DO IT! LEAP! We got you! Here are a couple books we recommend if you need further proof that this process works: “Do It Scared: Finding the Courage to Face Your Fears, Overcome Adversity, and Create a Life You Love” by Ruth Soukup “Feel the Fear and Do It Anyways” by Susan Jeffers, Ph.D And as always, we are here for you when you are ready. Make an appointment by calling our administrative goddess at 301-690-0779 ext. 700 or emailing hello@ empoweredconnections.net. Empowered Connections was founded in 2013 by Deborah Duley, MSW, LMSW, with a rebellious spirit and a big dream of connecting women and girls everywhere through specialized mental health therapy. We believe in connection, in the strength of women, that family (whatever that looks like for you) is our priority, in offering excellent customer service and that having the freedom to live the life we love, is paramount to everything else. We strongly believe that women need connection to heal and that where you have been, so have we. Where your story is our story! We believe that women are the future and that we have the power to change the world! We believe in the ripple effect of this change and are striving every day to help women and girls discover and empower their inner badass! Check us out at EmpoweredConnections.net or call us at 301-690-0779 ext. 700.
Ja nua ry/Februa ry 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
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where flowers
Bloom
–L n ady Bird Johnso
Image courtesy of Anchored Roots Farm Photography by Melissa Barrick, MB Photography melissabarrickphotography.com
Anchored Roots Farm is a woman-owned farm focused on growing specialty cut fresh flowers. Anchored to the roots of our community, owner Priscilla Wentworth Leitch grows food and flowers for Southern Maryland. Visit anchoredrootsfarm.com for information on workshops, event flowers, centerpieces and more.
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Jan u a r y/ Fe br u a r y 2 02 1 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
so does
hope.
health&wellness By Meredith Drumm, LCPC
What Makes a Trauma? What is the first thing you think of when you hear the word “trauma”? In my experience, it seems most people think of war, combat stories, rape, car accidents, etc. And while those things could definitely all be considered traumatic; the truth is that ANY event in your life could be a trauma – it really all depends on your reaction to it. Trauma is incredibly subjective, meaning it looks different to different people. What is traumatic for one may not be for another. The American Psychological Association (APA) defines trauma as, “an emotional response to a terrible event.” It is the response that makes it a trauma. Does this mean that what happened to you wasn’t awful? Absolutely not. But it does mean there are more
things in life that could be considered traumatic than one might realize. If you are wondering if you have been through something traumatic, there are a few key questions you want to ask yourself: • Did you experience something in which you thought you or someone else was going to be seriously hurt? • Did you feel intense fear, helplessness, or horror at the time of this experience? Answering yes to both of those questions could be enough to qualify a situation as a trauma. There is a lot of wiggle room! When you think of someone being seriously hurt, do you imagine a physical hurt or an emotional one? Did you
Feeling ashamed, lost, afraid, alone? Reliving terrifying moments? Wondering when the dreams will stop? No matter what the road of life has put in your way, there is hope for recovery. Contact Hope and Healing Psychotherapy today to begin your healing journey. 41650 Courthouse Drive, Suite 301 Leonardtown, MD 20650 301-690-8404 www.hopehealingtherapy.com hopehealingtherapy hope_healing_therapy
hear about something terrible that happened to a friend or relative? Those could also fall under the trauma umbrella. As always, consult with a licensed mental health provider to discuss a true diagnosis, like those of us at Hope and Healing Psychotherapy, LLC. The reality is, most people end up with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from events related to everyday life situations, not necessarily just one major event. Some surprising experiences that could be categorized as traumatic include bullying, emotional child abuse such as withholding affection, the death of a loved one (even if their death was anticipated), witnessing domestic violence (even if you aren’t a part of it), and more. The truth of the matter is most of us are collectively living through traumatic times right now. Covid-19 and the effects of adjusting to life as we now know it has been stressful. Do not discount what you have been through and continue to go through when it comes to stressful experiences. People often put off treatment because they think their life isn’t “bad enough” or
what they went through was normal to them, so it must not count. Neither of these thoughts are true. Try not to compare your insides with another person’s outsides. We are all unique human beings with reasons why things affect us in certain ways. You don’t need to justify your trauma to anyone but yourself, so let’s try and give ourselves the validation we sometimes need.
Meredith Drumm, LCPC, has always been drawn to helping others. She truly believes in the good in people and loves to help guide others to see it in themselves. Meredith’s passion lies in working with those affected by trauma. She loves to see how different their lives and outlook are once treatment is completed. She also has thorough experience in many other areas of therapy including grief, depression, anxiety, parenting and relationship issues, LGBTQ issues, etc. She has worked with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of issues. She is open-minded with a direct style of communication when it comes to therapy. Her goal as your therapist is to first help you feel at ease, so that together you can get you to feel at ease with yourself and your own relationships—whatever that looks like for you.
Ja nua ry/Februa ry 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
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“It’s not that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but it’s your best friends who are your diamonds.” – Gina Barreca Happy Galentine’s Day to you and all of the amazing women in your life!
Happy New ear
f rom
Call 410-535-2577 or visit our website at calvertchamber.org for information on upcoming events.
health&wellness By Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS
Resolve to Take Better Care of your Teeth Are you ready to eat right, toss the cigarettes, and “sweat to the oldies”? New Year’s resolutions are most often about leading healthier lifestyles, but we don’t think about including our mouth in those thoughts. They may just be the most important part of keeping us healthy, especially during COVID-19. This year we saw heightened complications in the midst of the pandemic in patients with tooth and gum issues. Tooth decay and gum disease is a major health problem that does not normally get a lot of New Year-New You, attention. In fact, 80 percent of adults have some form of gum disease. Many are not aware of the diagnosis, symptoms, or its lasting effects. People with gum disease are more likely to develop diabetes or
heart disease. Pregnant women increase their risk of delivering low-birth weight and premature babies, and periodontal disease has been linked to increased risk of Alzheimer’s and Pancreatic Cancer. Periodontal disease presents inflammation in the body, which can lead to an increased risk of breathing difficulty, causing devastating, life-threatening impact to patients who have been hospitalized with COVID-19. There is no better day than today to take better care of your mouth and teeth. A few tips: • Brush twice daily: Mouths are your front-line defense for bacteria that damages not only your teeth and gums, but also other organs and systems in your body. • Floss daily: Your toothbrush cannot reach between
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your teeth where bacterial film likes to build up. Daily flossing cleans the spaces between teeth, depriving bacteria of a safe haven. • Get two professional dental cleanings a year: Your dental hygienist supplements your daily brushing and flossing by cleaning the pockets where bacteria may escape your own routine. Additionally, the hygienist provides a vital screening for problems between dental checkups. • Schedule an annual dental check-up: Preventative dentistry is better for your health – and much cheaper – than dealing with major dental problems. • Visit a periodontist for gum evaluation: All adults should have full periodontal examination once a year. This important assessment provides you and your dentist with a baseline measurement to record your pocket depth (space between your teeth and gums), the presence of gum disease, gum recession, bleeding, tooth mobility and plaque build up. • Eat, drink and be wary: The enemy of oral health is a group of natural bacteria that thrives on sugar and dissolves the protective enamel covering the teeth. Refined sugar is present in an overwhelming number of foods and is part of
the modern diabetes “epidemic.” This year, make a commitment to tooth and health-conscious eating habits. • Consider a new and stronger smile: Getting dental implants and crowns for missing or broken teeth isn’t a luxury; these problems can have a domino effect that will leave you with shifting teeth, a vulnerability to gum disease, and other growing damage. These necessary restorations will improve your quality of life and your long-term health. Do not wait for slight gum problems to become severe. Get screened and seek an expert evaluation from a periodontist today. Improving your dental health and preventing tooth decay can have a larger health impact than just a healthy mouth and brighter teeth – it Dr. Karl Smith may just save Karl Smith has your life. been in dental practice for more than 34 years. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of California, Los Angeles in 1981. He retired from the US Air Force as a Lt. Col, in 1996. Dr. Smith has advanced education in the specialty of Periodontics with additional training in Sedation and Dental Implants. He is consistently voted TOP DENTIST by his peers and listed in several publications including Washingtonian Magazine.
Ja nua ry/Februa ry 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
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—
SWIM & TENNIS
—
GRILL
Outreach Programs: . i nc
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ministrie
• Shelter Outreach • Mission & Ministry Outreach
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Golf&Grill OPEN E TO THIC L B PU
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P mem ool be avail rships a in 20 ble 21!
• Basic Computer Skills Outreach rit
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For the poor will never cease from the land; therefore I command you, saying, You shall open your hand wide to your brother, to your poor and your needy, in your land. DEUTERONOMY 15:11
• Operation Let’s Eat Outreach (meals/non-perishable foodbank) • Shop The Closet Outreach (Men and Women’s Business Attire)
Empact Ministries Incministr
21935 Society Hill Road, Leonardtown, MD 20650 • BretonBayGolf.com
pi
s
501C(3) Tax Deductible Donations
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301-475-2300
Open to members and Call us today to learn non-members for both more about golf eat-in and our take-out memberships, leagues dining every day. & tournaments.
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. i nc
Offering light fare dining with a view of Breton Bay.
for more up-to-date info!
s
OOD
IRONW
GRILL
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For the poor will never cease from the land; therefore I command you, saying, You shall open your hand wide to your brother, to your poor and your needy, in your land. DEUTERONOMY 15:11
WE’RE THRILLED TO ANNOUNCE THE CREATION OF THE MD SIERRA FILM CLUB, A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE SIERRA CLUB MARYLAND CHAPTER AND THE D.C. ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL.
CHECK OUT: SIERRACLUB.ORG/MARYLAND/FILMCLUB Breathtaking footage and award-winning visual story-telling help us gain a deeper understanding of the environment in every corner of our planet.
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A monthly live panel with filmmakers, experts, and community voices to explore issues detailed in a free film
Curated playlists of 4-7 films on pressing environmental topics
Access to hundreds of environmental films of all lengths
To support our grassroots environmental advocacy and free programming, give the gift of membership this holiday season! Visit sierraclub.org/Maryland/joinordonate.
finances By Stephanie Taubert Dali
Simplify Your Finances in 2021 Have you made that allimportant New Year’s resolution to save money and pay down debt? Then don’t churn through four different credit cards with high, variable interest rates. Cedar Point has a low, fixedrate credit card that could help you reach your financial goals faster. Transfer your balances to a Cedar Point credit card and you could save on interest in the new year. What’s a Credit Card Balance Transfer? A balance transfer is simple. You apply for a new card with a lower interest rate than your current card. Then, you request to transfer your balance from that card to the new one. Essentially, you’re moving credit card debt from one credit card to another to save money on interest. Do you carry balances on multiple credit cards? You can transfer multiple balances to a Cedar Point credit card for a simpler monthly payment. When you transfer your balances to a Cedar Point credit
card, you can consolidate your debt while also accessing a lower, fixed rate. Lower rates can potentially help you save money on your monthly payments and pay off your debt sooner. Here’s how: • Make it simple: Turn multiple payments into one payment. • Lock in a low rate: Cedar Point offers consistently low rates. • Fixed rate: There is no penalty rate or variable rate. • Pay it down: With a lower rate, you can pay down debt faster. • No balance transfer fee: You can concentrate on saving. Below is an example of what your monthly interest savings might look like if you transfer your balances to Cedar Point. In the scenario below, your monthly payment would be reduced by $18. Over time, those savings really add up.
% 7.00 Rates as low as
APR
New Year, New Financial Resolutions!
Transfer your balances today!
APPLY ONLINE - www.cpfcu.com/balance-transfer Rates accurate as of 1.1.21. APR = Annual Percentage Rate.
Do you carry balances on multiple credit cards? You can transfer multiple balances to a Cedar Point credit card for a simpler monthly payment.
*APR = Annual Percentage Rate Federally Insured by NCUA
**Weighted Average
Stephanie Taubert Dali is the Marketing Communications Specialist at Cedar Point Federal Credit Union. She has lived in Southern Maryland for most of her life, currently residing in St. Mary’s County. Stephanie is an active member of the Newtowne Players, a nonprofit theatre group in Lexington Park. Ja nua ry/Februa ry 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
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law By Victor Lembo
Where Do We Go from Here? When you have created a will, trust, or otherwise made an estate plan, your plan needs to be periodically updated in order to ensure that it is still an accurate reflection of what you hope will happen after you pass away. There are many changes that will occur over the course of your life, and as your situation changes, you need to make sure you have updated your estate plan. Wills and trusts are basic and important estate planning documents. They can be used to provide comprehensive instructions to ensure your legacy is protected. Also, they can help avoid your family from fighting over assets and provide clear instructions for who will
be in charge of your estate. Some common situations that can necessitate an update include the following: • Giving birth to or adopting a child • A new grandchild • A child or grandchild becoming an adult, or a child or grandchild requiring funding to take advantage of educational opportunities • The person who was named in a will as a guardian for minor children experiences a change in circumstances that necessitate selecting a new guardian for kids • The number of dependents who you are responsible for providing care to changes
• Marriage or divorce occurs • A spouse becomes ill or becomes disabled • A new, large asset, such as a piece of real estate, is purchased • New liabilities are taken on, such as a large loan • Investments or other assets substantially increasing or decreasing in value • Receiving a large gift or large inheritance for either you or your spouse • A change in any state or federal laws related to investments, property, or taxes • A family member experiencing a disabling condition, becoming ill, or passing away • The will executor having a change in circumstances or the death of your executor • A change in your career situation, such as starting a new business, closing an existing family business, receiving a promotion, or getting a new job It is especially important that you follow the correct process to revoke or amend your estate plan. Otherwise, if something happens to you before you make your updates,
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Jan u a r y/ Fe br u a r y 2 02 1 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
your existing document will likely be enforced, and your current wishes likely will not be honored. A qualified estate planning attorney at Sinclair Prosser Gasior will ensure that your documents are updated legally and meet your planning goals. Victor Lembo became interested in estates and trusts while helping his grandparents plan for their medical and financial needs. Understanding the importance and resulting impact of estate planning decisions solidified his desire to counsel individuals and families. His approach to build a strong foundation with the flexibility to adapt to various situations provides his clients with peace of mind. Victor graduated summa cum laude from Towson University with his Bachelor of Science degree. He received his Juris Doctor with a Concentration in Estate Planning from the University of Baltimore School of Law. Victor is admitted to the Court of Appeals of Maryland and the District of Columbia Court of Appeals. He is a member of the Estates and Trusts Section and Elder Law Section of the Maryland State Bar Association and a member of the Prince George’s County Bar Association. Victor was born in Washington, D.C. and is a lifelong Maryland resident. He currently lives in Millersville with his wife, daughter and son.
business By Tracie Daniels
What Covid-19 Has Taught Us About Working Differently Covid-19 is the topic on everyone’s mind and has been since February of 2020. The pandemic created by this virus has been a once in a lifetime experience for millions of people. The daily coverage of infection rates, hospitalizations, and deaths has been paralyzing. We have experienced stay-at home orders, mask mandates, and our favorite local businesses closing (some forever). Although this novel virus has brought about some very negative outcomes, the same virus has also provided opportunities for us to learn how to do things differently, perhaps even better. For many organizations, the adoption of virtual work has been necessary to stay
productive and sustainable. Tech giants Facebook and Twitter recently announced that some employees will have the option of working remotely indefinitely. Imagine how beneficial that
Consider the impact of a skilled professional in a rural part of the U.S., like Southern Maryland, having access to jobs that, until now, were only staffed with people in a highly populated metropolis, merely due to proximity? The possibilities are truly endless for millions of workers.
will be for the work/life balance many American workers have long struggled to achieve? Further, as organizations move towards greater acceptance of remote workers postpandemic, the likelihood that the availability of jobs would increase is high. Consider the impact of a skilled professional in a rural part of the U.S., such as Southern Maryland, having access to jobs that, until now, were only staffed with people in a highly populated metropolis, merely due to proximity? The possibilities are truly endless for millions of workers. Relatedly, the Guardian Life Workplace 2020 Report indicated that while 70 percent of disabled workers wanted to work remotely, only 18 percent had that option prior to the pandemic. If more companies adopt the philosophy of permanent remote work, the opportunities to broaden the diversity of talent to include disabled workers could exponentially increase. Other areas that have realized some positive outcomes are automating organizational processes and a strong emphasis on the mental health of employees. Many companies have been forced to experiment with shifting routine processes and realizing surprisingly positive outcomes. For example, a recent article in Forbes magazine noted that moving on-boarding programs to 100% virtual could increase employee satisfaction over the long-term. Health care benefits overall have also been elevated to the forefront as organizations increase employee mental health programs such as counseling and well-being
activities. A recent article by Guardian Life Insurance also suggests that because much of the workforce is facing elevated stress levels due to Covid-19, employees’ mental health will likely continue to be a priority post pandemic. This provides great hope for the future regarding attention on mental health, which has been severely ignored by society for decades. In adopting a new way of working, organizations have made some changes that will likely last long after the pandemic has passed – which is good news! This experience will serve as a testament that humans can grow, even during tragedy. Tracie Daniels has more than 20 years of experience as a leader in the human capital management field. She has worked in various sectors including government, financial services, non-profit, telecommunications, and legal services. Mrs. Daniels has managed several high-profile projects including spearheading the education and awareness initiatives for the Obama Administration’s National Making Home Affordable Program of 2009 – 2015. Mrs. Daniels is the President of Synergy Consulting, a human capital management consulting firm, which specializes in strategic planning and executive management, diversity and inclusion, organizational assessment and design, performance management, and leadership development consulting. Mrs. Daniels holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in counseling. Mrs. Daniels has served as board member for several non-profit organizations.
Ja nua ry/Februa ry 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
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finances By Carlisa Kent
Goal Setting Essentials for 2021 Say Goodbye to 2020, and hello 2021! This will be the year of setting goals, not just settling for resolutions. Setting goals for yourself is absolutely the best thing to do to start the new year off right. But just having good intentions alone changes nothing. You can make all the resolutions you want, but resolutions without a plan is just wishful thinking. Concrete goals are the foundations of a great plan. So, how do we set goals and stick to them? Here are my essential guidelines for setting financial goals in the new year: Be Specific: Ask yourself, what is it you want to accomplish? Be specific in your answer, such as, “I want to pay off all my credit cards.” It is important to
make sure the goal is realistic – do not set yourself up for an impossible task. Ask yourself: who does my goal involve, what am I trying to accomplish, and when and why do I want to make this goal happen? Make Goals Measurable: If paying off credit cards is your goal, then that means you must do the math. Look at the total you owe and divide it by how much you can afford to pay each month. This will tell you how long it is going to take to obtain this goal. Check on your progress often – it feels great to see you are still on track! Make Goals Time Sensitive: Yes, you must set a time limit. It does not have to be within 12 months, but it should be a
Contact Me Today to Change Your Tomorrow Carlisa Kent | 240-528-1743 linktr.ee/Carlisacares Zoom Appointments Available
• Create a starter emergency fund • Pay off all debt • Save 3-6 months of household expenses • Invest 15% of your household income • Begin a college fund for kids CARLISA KENT Financial Coach • Pay off your home early
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You can make all the resolutions you want, but resolutions without a plan is just wishful thinking. Concrete goals are the foundations of a great plan. specific date. Your goals should have a deadline, for example, “I want to pay off all my credit cards by March 2022.” Goals Need to be YOURS: Okay, this is the hard one. Make your goals about you. Be selfish. Do not take on someone else’s goal for yourself. You may want to make them happy, but if it is not your goal you may not follow through with it. Just because someone tell you it would be great to pay off your credit cards, you must want to do it too for it to become a success. Put It in Writing: There is something extra influential about writing things down and putting them somewhere you can see them often. So, get a notebook, Postit® notes, you name it... go old school with this one – no electronic list. Seeing your goals
in black in white will help to hold you accountable and track your progress. I would advise to even go a step further and list the steps it may take to reach your goal: paying off $1,200 in credit card debt in a year means paying $100 a month, or $23.07 a week (52 weeks). Do not get discouraged if you get off track, life happens, just pick up and start again. Taking baby steps works so much better than trying to do it all at once! Here is the best plan, but you do not have to do this alone. Contact me today and set up a time to go over your plan and how to best execute it. I have group rates for January and February, so if you and a few friends want to tackle this as a group, let me help. Carlisa Kent Ramsey Financial Coach. Helping Individual’s conquer their finances in a smart and sustainable way. Graduate of Trinity College, Washington DC. Mother of four. I have lived through a financial crisis and learned to save for my future before a crisis hit.
IN HONOR OF VALENTINE’S DAY, WE WANTED TO KNOW…
What Makes
Love Last? ❤
BRAD & PENNY BROWN MARRIED 41 YEARS - Be respectful and support each other’s goals and ambitions. - Keep dating each other (and look good for each other!) - Always look for ways to make each other happy, whether small or big. - Keep life light – joke, play pranks, have fun with each other. - Go out, even if you are low on money – a cup of coffee, romantic walk, watch the sun set! Keep life simple and always put each other first.
JOSEPH JR. & SANDRA MILES MARRIED 49 YEARS - Always respect each other’s opinion and trust your partner. - Communication and faith in God. - You don’t need to have a plan; you just need each other for your life to form into a relationship of love and respect. - Treat your wife like a “Queen,” love her and take her on extravagant trips.
SHARMILA & KIRAN MEHTA MARRIED 37 YEARS - Mutual care and respect. - Open communication and flexibility. - Don’t sweat the small stuff – always focus on the big picture! - Build on each other’s strengths and not on each other’s weaknesses.
LUIS MEJIA & ROXANN JOHNSTON MEJIA MARRIED 30 YEARS
QUINCY & NOCOLA WILLIAMS MARRIED 27 YEARS
- Make plans and never stop dating each other. - You must be able to laugh together when things go wrong and when things are bad. It creates unity within a crisis and lightens a heavy heart. - Have patience, understanding, and the ability to carry the load when the other cannot. - Celebrate the little things, not just the big ones.
- Genuinely enjoying each other’s company is so important. We have a lot in common, which makes it easy to spend time together. But even when our interests differ, we are always there to offer support. - You may not always agree, but always have respect for one another. Marriage is hard... you have to work at it to make it successful.
Ja nua ry/Februa ry 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
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Patuxent Brewing Co.
Black-Owned Beer Boutique in the Heart of Charles County Q&A with Tranice Watts & Davie Feaster On Your Passion We started off as any young person – loving beer. But our founder Davie and I remember being in welding class in highschool and telling people we would own a bar one day. Davie was adamant he would have a Cheers-esque bar where everyone would feel comfortable patronizing. Once he began brewing faithfully and witnessed family and friends drinking more of his beer than well-known brands, Davie truly realized he might be onto something! Getting out of the “hood” and building a legacy for our families and ensuring the economic upward mobility of others has always been our motivation to open. We want our youth to know the power of manifestation and the power beer has to bring people together!
Founder and Head Brewer Davie Feaster and Taproom and Marketing Manager Eugene Lott take a call from an area vendor.
Business Manager Tranice Watts applies labels to one of the beers she recently canned.
On Your Motivation We noticed a nano-brewery and taproom was missing from the area and wanted to bring something unique to Charles County. It was also important for us to bring craft beer to the black community since this
is an industry few minorities consider working in. Our goal is to be a tourist attraction and a pillar in the community! On Being a Small Business Owner It has not been easy to start something from the ground up, but we have been blessed in a number of ways. When COVID first hit, we were prepared to distribute the first round of our flagship beer. However, we had to rethink our plan, and from there we started online ordering, takeout options, and more. This, along with the unwavering support of the county and our patrons, got us through the unpredictable stages of the shutdown. On Lessons Learned Follow your dreams, surround yourself with a great team, and most of all, never give up!
A flight of beer is available to taproom visitors so they may sample the current rotation of offerings at Patuxent Brewing Co.
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On What’s Next? Our team is planning to restart our podcast titled
Cases of Black is Beautiful beer await pick up at the brewery in anticipation of online sales from the community.
“The Mash-Up with Patuxent Brewing Company,” which seeks to highlight other small businesses in the county. In partnership with Charles County Tourism, we are also working on brewing a personalized beer to represent Charles County based on community votes, so keep an eye out for that initiative.
PatuxentBrewing.com @PaxBrewingCo @Patuxentbrewingco 70 Industrial Park Drive, Suite 2A, Waldorf, MD 20602
BY KYLE WEBBER
TAEKWONDO YOUR SOLUTION TO LIFE’S MANY CHALLENGES
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BETH GRAEME
N thing prepares a person for life; it just o
happens. Such is the way for having children. I am the father of six. Yesterday (it seems), my wife Cathy and I were high school sweethearts. Now, our oldest son is 16 and starting to drive. The author Gloria Naylor wrote that, “Time is a funny thing… years melted down into a fraction of a second.” That is what the last 20 years feel like – a fraction of a second. Try not to blink.
Three years ago, my wife and I welcomed our first daughter into the world. Her name is Madeline. Madeline is spunky. She loves her four older brothers, though she views herself as something of an enforcer among the group. If you were to ask her, she would explain in 3-year-old speak, that she’s a dog whisperer. She is an expert cuddle buddy. She takes her Cheerios with strawberries and seems to possess a sixth sense for the presence of ice cream. I might as well state for the record, when I met her, it was love at first sight.
“STUDYING THE TECHNIQUE OF SELF-DEFENSE TEACHES ONE HOW TO OVERCOME HARDSHIP, HOW TO TREAT OTHERS WITH RESPECT (EVEN AMONG ADVERSARIES), AND THE VALUE OF HARD WORK.
In the epic battle of the sexes, which has waged in my household, the men have enjoyed a distinct advantage in numbers. I have in the past, been haughty about my perceived ability to produce male offspring. However, in October of last year, the women of my tribe struck another blow when we were blessed with our second daughter, Makenzie. She is still new to us, but we are deeply grateful for her and love her with all the power that we possess.
Ja nua ry/Februa ry 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
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Kyle with daughter Madeline and wife Cathy
What does all this mean? To sum up: as children grow, it is harder to help them. Life continues hereafter in ever-increasing complexity. Your conduct as a parent is under constant scrutiny as your child, the one you’d hoped to leave better-off than yourself, absorbs everything. The child is constantly crafting their own world view of people and relationships, morality, and truth, all based on your actions, both inadvertent and deliberate. The consequence of all these weighty determinants? Just your child’s happiness and well-being. No pressure, of course.
Kyle Webber is the owner of Black Belt Academy in Prince Frederick. He invites you and your child to try out Taekwondo in the new year with a 2-week trial for $19. Visit CalvertMartialArts.com or call 410-414-7530 to schedule your classes.
Kyle with his daughter Madeline
A moment of clarity in parenting is a rare thing; enlightening, and often sobering. Two such moments have occurred to me recently. It was not long ago that I envisioned my oldest son, reaching adulthood, and had the thought that he would no longer face life’s problems. In essence, I thought that upon his eighteenth birthday he would be, perhaps magically, immune to hardship. To put it in other terms, I viewed the future in the same hopeful shades that every great procrastinator imbues the coming of age – with perfect optimism. When clarity struck, I realized I wagered on a false hope. I came to a terrifying epiphany. My children’s problems will continue to be evermore complex and difficult, and I will be concurrently less useful at solving those problems. Please allow me to illustrate. It is a lot easier to teach a boy how to find loose change under the seat cushion than to teach a young man how to acquire a job. It was around the time I realized my son’s problems were only getting more complex when Madeline entered the stage. At that time, a second moment of clarity came to me which changed life drastically: Madeline will, in all likelihood, base her view of what constitutes a good husband and father on my conduct. What’s more she will probably one day seek a spouse whose treatment of her mirrors the treatment I show my wife.
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“
If you enjoy meditation, you may take time to ruminate on the caterpillar. Seemingly a desperate and defenseless creature, the caterpillar undergoes a metamorphosis. It is not dissimilar to the changes that a person may experience learning to defend his or herself.
In my youth, my parents introduced me to Taekwondo. Like a lot of people who endeavor to learn self-defense, I got picked on as a kid. More than self-defense instruction, Taekwondo provided me with an outlet to grow in ways that did not involve punching or kicking. I wish that I could tell you my experiences with martial arts as a youth culminated in a Karate Kidesque showdown whereby I availed myself against the abuse I experienced at the hands of bullies. It would be entertaining to state that any unresolved conflict from my formative years was extinguished in an epic throwdown. The fact of the matter is, life is rarely that poetic.
Kyle practicing jabs with wife Cathy
“I will strive to conduct myself according to the tenets of
TAEKWONDO COURTESY INTEGRITY PERSEVERANCE SELF-CONTROL & INDOMITABLE SPIRIT.”
Truthfully, I never fought anyone in school. After about a year of Taekwondo, I stopped getting bullied. No action prompted this; rather I merely learned to carry myself in a different way. Even now, though I enjoy training (sparring), I do not relish fighting and tend to avoid confrontation whenever possible. It is interesting to note that meditation is key to doing all martial arts. Typically, when you bounce around, kicking and punching for long enough, you are going to want to throw up. Early on, the martial artist learns, quite naturally, how to alleviate this desire to vomit through meditation. Essentially, the need to separate one’s mind from the body necessitates this discipline. If you enjoy meditation, you may take time to ruminate on the caterpillar. Seemingly a desperate and defenseless creature, the caterpillar undergoes a metamorphosis. It is not dissimilar to the changes that a person may experience learning to defend his or herself. In summary, learning a martial art is an apt, durable solution for coping with many
of life’s challenges. Studying the technique of self-defense teaches one how to overcome hardship, how to treat others with respect (even among adversaries), and the value of hard work. The student of fighting will learn how to get hit, how to get up, and if necessary, how to utilize violence sparingly to defend one’s self and others. Taekwondo has been an essential part of my life. I will continue to encourage and share my passion for martial arts with others – especially my daughters. I will strive to conduct myself according to the tenets of Taekwondo: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit. It is my hope that I will serve as an example to my children, that they will find the same lessons that have instructed me over the last 20 years to be practical and effective. It is my sincerest desire to see my little caterpillars blossom into beautiful, resilient butterflies. Finally, it is also my hope that if you are reading this, you’ll consider trying out Taekwondo for yourself.
Ja nua ry/Februa ry 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
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normalish
THE
short YEARS
PARENTING IN A PANDEMIC BY MEGAN JOHNSON
“As as w much hold e want to our in su childre n ns shad ows hine, are of li fe. A a part had to fi nd we n forw d a way ard”
Like many parents, last spring was dedicated to keeping news of the pandemic out of my living room. It wasn’t all that hard at first. I never get to watch anything that isn’t animated, let alone something “boring” like national updates — plus we’re careful when little eyes are around.
A
s I remind my husband Spencer with his colorful curse words, however, we know kids don’t miss much. In March, traffic thinned on 301. Businesses shuttered. Masks obscured once-friendly faces in the grocery store. And then our daycare had to close, too. That pesky pandemic I tried to keep on the outside? Well, it was only growing — and the worry was too much to ignore. Suddenly all my fears seemed to be lit up like a neon sign over the fireplace: “Something Bad is Happening.” Even as I traded tips with coworkers on where to find toilet paper — even the loose rolls! — and bartered for ground beef, I tried to shield my children’s eyes from the glare. Spencer and I stuck with explanations that were truthful, but not scary. “Lots of people are sick, so we’re all staying home,” was the best I had. The days blurred together. Spencer shifted to working at home while balancing the demands of two confused preschoolers. I work in communications for a healthcare system by day — so, you know, this was go-time. I continued reporting to the office. Adrenaline got me through the early weeks as “lockdown” and “social distancing” entered our vocabulary. But like everyone, my energy quickly drained. I’m a nervous mess on a normal day, and this? This was not a normal day – or month, or season. Though my Mom of the Year nomination has been lost in the mail for five years running, I do know children thrive on routine. We tried bringing our pre-pandemic rules into our new pandemic life, but 30 minutes of screen time? There’s eight hours in a workday,
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so you connect the dots. Though I wanted to project a calm and collected approach, I’m sure my anxious energy was still dousing everything like a firehose. My kids, Ollie and Hadley, knew something was “off,” but they mostly rolled with it. We were about a month into this strange routine when my 3-year-old abruptly turned to me. Where, she asked indignantly, were her friends from school? “Home, babe,” I said. “Remember lots of people are sick right now?” “Yes.” My daughter nodded solemnly. “With grown-up virus.” “Coronavirus,” her brother corrected. “Ah. ’Ronavirus,” Hadley amended. Hearing that word out of their little mouths was almost as shocking as one of their dad’s choice phrases. But something
Jan u a r y/ Fe br u a r y 2 02 1 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
inside me actually cracked with relief. As much as we want to hold our children in sunshine, shadows are a part of life. And we had to find a way forward. Since they knew about the “grown-up virus,” I took that as a moment to talk about the strange times we are in — and how we can get through them together. None of this is normal. But maybe we can make it normal-ish. And more than anything? We can just cut ourselves some slack. Some days, that means Popsicles (sugar-free!) before breakfast. I’ve also learned to stop worrying so much about the puzzle pieces I find scattered like confetti, or the endless piles of dishes and dirty socks. The kids have been able to cautiously return to daycare – as of writing this – and are doing well in unusual circumstances. I try to remember we are all still navigating uneven terrain (while wearing masks, no less), and learning to smile with our eyes takes time. For now, normal-ish is good enough until brighter days return. We’re figuring it out, right? Somehow, we just do. In the meantime, well... there’s chocolate. And that’s something, too.
Megan Johnson’s bloodstream is part coffee, part Old Bay. Author of the long-running “Right, Meg?” column in Southern Maryland Newspapers, she is a 30-something cupcake lover, voracious reader, and editor-turned-communications professional. Megan lives with her husband and two children in Charles County. Follow her on Instagram at @writemeg.
home care By Gene Wright
Secrets of the Pros:
How Do Exterminators Get Rid of Mice? It is cold outside, and mice are looking to move in. What is more annoying than waking up and seeing your fruit basket pillaged by rodents? Mice have no respect for your home and how much you pay to keep it up. Send them packing like the pros do. Mice survive off an omnivorous diet but tend to enjoy plundering pantries for fruits and grains. They will eat through bags of seeds if you have them as well. If you thought enticing them to a trap with cheese would work, think again. They would prefer your expensive chocolates instead. Better yet, mice take pleasure in hanging out in your garbage can. So, how do exterminators get rid of mice anyway?
Exterminators do not show up in a ghostbusters suit and vaporize every mouse in and near your home. If they did, that would only be a temporary fix to the problem. A professional exterminator will survey your home searching out entry points. Entry points
Exterminators place rodent traps in clever spots around the home. These hot spots include your attic, crawlspaces, and corners of your basement if you have one. Pros never place traps in food areas or common areas where you and your family hang out.
are how mice and rodents get into your home. They start outside the home checking for holes and cracks. Mice chew through wood, so a hole on the outside of the home is an open invitation to infest. Exterminators also look for gaps near the windows inside the home. They check your doors as well. Yes, a mouse can walk right through your front door‌ if there is a crack in it, of course. Exterminators can help seal off these points to ensure mice do not reenter the home after extermination.
The Secrets to Getting Rid of Mice
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Professional mice exterminators do not turn your home into a war zone. You do not have to cancel parties because traps are everywhere. They use strategic means to lure and exterminate mice. Exterminators place rodent traps in clever spots around the home. These hot spots include your attic, crawlspaces, and corners of your basement if you have one. Pros never place traps in food areas or common areas where you and your family hang out.
Mice like to travel close to their entry and escape roots. Expect to see baited traps in these areas as well as rodenticide. Rodenticide deployed on the exterior may be the preferred method of ridding your home of mice. Traps are effective solutions, but the correct use of rodenticides is best for complete extermination. Follow up is important, too. Mice populate fast. The female gives birth up to six times a year. Each of her litters can average 4-6 pups or more, so one round of extermination may not solve your problem. Depending on the severity of the infestation, pros recommend extermination control once a month. Often it helps to talk with an exterminator about professional means for protecting your home against rodents. Gene Wright is the president of Planet Friendly Pest Control, a locally owned and operated pest exterminator company focused on providing their clients with the very best in pest control, rodent extermination and termite control, while reducing the overall impact on the environment.
Ja nua ry/Februa ry 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
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Ja nua ry/Februa ry 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
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With 2020 (finally!) in the rearview mirror, it is time to look toward the future with a renewed focus on finding inspiration, peace, and joy. Here are a few things to try in the New Year. Resolve to refresh your body, mind, and spirit. Do something just for you. It doesn’t matter how small, you’ll feel better if you include some regular me-time on your to-do list. Start with a minute. You can do anything for one minute! Work your way up. If you’re looking for exercise, check out the offerings at root SUP & Fitness (Leonardtown), Live Out Loud Yoga / Pole Prodigy (La Plata), and Barefoot Wellness (Prince Frederick). Take a load off with licensed mental health professionals who specialize in women’s needs at Empowered Connections (Leonardtown and Dunkirk), Bayside Therapy (North Beach), Healing Minds and Hearts Services (La Plata), and Embracing Change Counseling & Mentoring Services (Waldorf).
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Find a new best friend. 2 There’s no shortage of animals in need of love. Start with the pound and local rescue groups like the Animal Relief Fund (Lexington Park), St. Mary’s Animal Welfare League (Mechanicsville), Tri-County Animal Shelter (Hughesville), Cat Castle (Callaway), and Sugar Faces Senior Dog Rescue (Lexington Park). Give a room a new look. Whether it’s a DIY fresh lick of paint or a full professional renovation, change the way your walls talk. Meet with the professionals at Baldwin Design Group (California), A Woman of Design (Waldorf), Chesapeake Staging & Interiors (California) or Amazing Spaces Home Staging (Waldorf) for ideas. You can pick
3
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up supplies at Dyson’s Building Center (Callaway), St. Mary’s Lighting (Lexington Park), and Dean Lumber (Hollywood). Become a day-tripper. Hit the road for excursions in Washington D.C.; Baltimore, Maryland; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Richmond, Virginia — all easy trips from Southern Maryland. Each city offers entertainment, dining, and other experience options to help you turn time into memories. For small-town coziness with big-city perks, check out Fredericksburg, Virginia or downtown Annapolis. Southern Maryland is packed with local history, too. Drive down to Historic St. Mary’s City or Sotterley Plantation for a dose of the region’s rich heritage.
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Pick up a weekly pick-me-up. Give yourself the gift of 100% local, seasonal flowers with a bouquet subscription from Anchored Roots Farm in Hollywood, Maryland. Other non-subscription options include Scarborough Farm (Mechanicsville), Weavers Fresh Cut Flowers (Loveville), and Ecoblossoms Farms (Upper Marlboro), which focuses on local, sustainable cut flower peonies.
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Cook and eat, better. Phase out comfort foods by learning a new signature dish or try your hand at a different cuisine by participating in area cooking classes. Local options for group and private classes include No Thyme to Cook (Solomons) and Quality Street Kitchen (Leonardtown). For the
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Jan u a r y/ Fe br u a r y 2 02 1 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
best flavor and nutrient density, use organic ingredients from Sassafras Creek (Leonardtown), Even’ Star Farm (Lexington Park) or grab groceries from The Good Earth Natural Food Store (Leonardtown), MOM’s Organic Market (Waldorf), and Chesapeake’s Bounty (St. Leonard). Replace convenience snacks with healthier, fresh options to help you feel balanced and in control. Another way to do that is by trying a recipe from Flavored With Love, a new cookbook by local author and wellness coach, Shaniqua Cousins. Get inspired with a good book, blog, magazine, or podcast. Read and listen voraciously to learn and grow. If you enjoy social media, I suggest subscribing to blogs and Facebook groups that interest you. The coffee is always on at Fenwick Street Used Books & Music (Leonardtown), where the mother and daughter team are more than happy to help you find your new favorite. White Rabbit Books and Gifts in California also has a stunning collection of children’s books
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and gifts – something for everyone! Of course, don’t forget to check out the local library. You can even listen to audiobooks and music for free using the Libby app. Plant something and help it grow. Check out the buzz at Two Hens Feed, Seed, and Bees. Owned by two women entrepreneurs, the business offers year-round plants as well as live birds and gifts (and everything in bee-tween) to help brighten your green thumb. The Loveville Produce Auction offers in-season vegetable and flowering plants, too. For more landscaping options, Meadows Farms (Leonardtown) and Wintergreen Nursery (Prince Frederick) are always stocked with the best gardening and landscaping supplies.
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Educate yourself and honor your independence. Whether it’s a desire to learn something new every day or even change your career, fill your new year with education. The College of Southern Maryland can help you earn a degree or
9
additional college credits. You can also enhance your career by taking classes for personal enrichment or to grow your business. St. Mary’s College of Maryland – The National Public Honors College – offers four-year liberal arts degrees in an idyllic waterfront setting. The Southern Maryland Higher Education Center (California) provides graduate and upperundergraduate academic and professional development opportunities offered through partnerships with the University of Maryland, Bowie State, Florida Institute of Technology, Johns Hopkins, Notre Dame of Maryland, Salisbury University, Towson University, and Webster University. All of these local institutions also offer yearround events, lectures, and concerts for more casual learning experiences. Build or strengthen your financial plan. Do you want to travel more, donate to your favorite charity, or start your own business? Putting
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your money in the spotlight will help you reach those goals. With a little focus, you can fund the financial life you want. Apps like Mint and You Need a Budget (YNAB) help track spending so you can see exactly where your money is going and pinpoint problem areas. For those looking to grow their capital, apps like Acorns and Stash offer a fun and easy way to start small and invest directly from your smartphone. Check out local banks and credit unions for other options, too. Open yourself up to love. This year, open your heart to new opportunities with online dating options like match.com and eharmony.com. Prefer someone your own age? Give silversingles.com or ourtime.com a try. Ready to up the ante? It may be time to consider a matchmaker. Dcmatchmaking.com, a discreet, upscale matchmaking company for commitmentminded singles in the Maryland, Virginia, and DC
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region is a click away. The pandemic pressed paused on a number of socializing options, so if you’re looking for love, now could be the best time to really get to know someone. Not into using a “dating headhunter”? There are always the classic apps you can lean on like Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge when you would rather take playing cupid into your own hands. Explore your inner artist. 2020 was the perfect year to pick up new hobbies and this year is no exception to stop looking. Find your inner Picasso by taking art classes at Yellow Door Art Studios (Leonardtown) or at Carsley Art Studio (Port Republic). The AR Workshop in La Plata also offers tons of DIY to-go kits, group events, and classes. If you are the kind of person who prefers to admire from afar, the Maryland State Arts Council can connect you with artists and events all throughout the state, just visit msca.org to learn more!
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Bonus tip: Although everyone has a different approach and wish list, we can all maximize results by making sure that our goals are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and exciting. What does that mean in practice? Instead of just saying you’d like to keep in touch with your friends more often, make a point to call or email someone on your holiday card list every Wednesday, maybe during your commute or on your lunch break.
Cheers
to a Wonderful 2021!
Ja nua ry/Februa ry 2021 | SouthernMarylandWoman.com
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caregivers for our children and our aging parents women make purchasing decisions on behalf of the people who live in their households, as well as for extended family and friends.*
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referred to as the sandwich generation, caring for their children and aging parents.
IS SMART FOR magazine YOUR BUSINESS
IS SMART FOR YOUR BUSINESS
four FWM distributes 17,000+ copies each SMW features meaningful issue, reaching 42,500 local editorial content. women in Fairfax, Tysons, Vienna, In every issue, we offer McLean, Reston, Herndon, Great inspirational stories of local women doing Falls,great Alexandria Falls Church. things inand our community.
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We offer multi-media marketing. FWM features seven Women have a All of our contributors’ articles are multiplier effect. featured in both printmeaningful and online. Digital Because women serve as primary presence includeseditorial both a dedicated link to content caregivers for children and aging parents, each article and within the digital edition of in every issue and women decisions on behalf the publication. sixmake purchasing FWM hand-delivers copies to over we offer inspirational of the people who live in their households. 400 locations throughout NoVa. Our stories of local women publications are strategically placed More than 70% of our doing great things in in grocery stores, retail shops, salons, Southern Maryland full-page advertisers renew spas,(SMW) cafes, libraries, hospitals and our community. Woman specifically their advertising with us.
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waiting rooms across the region. designs and produces our In fact, we have customers who have been with us for 10+ years. publication for women ages 35+.
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We mail 2000+ copies Looking to make directly to affluent neighborhoods McLean some extra incash in to ensure our advertisers are the New Year? with a in front of households large disposable income. We are NOW HIRING Sales Reps! Email our publisher at
nine oda@southermarylandwoman.com Over 70% of our full-page advertisers renew their advertising with us. In fact, we have a contributors that have been with us for 6+ years.
to learn more and apply.
This influential age group is sometimes
eight referred to as the sandwich generation, caring
ten We offer multi-media marketing. We encourage our We encourage our advertisers to write editorials to All of our contributors’ articles are advertisers to write complement their marketing. Content marketing, or featured in both print and online. Digital informational articles to editorials, are known to develop lasting relationships with your presence is through both a dedicated SMW distributes 12,000+ their marketing. improve brand awareness and recognition and link to each article and within the complement audience, copies each issue. or editorials, are create loyalty and trust with current customers and prospects. digital edition of the publication. Content marketing,
for both their children and aging parents.
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All in all, this reaches more than known to develop lasting relationships 30,000 local women in St. Mary’s, Charles, with audiences, improve brand Consistent marketing, both in print and online, positions your business as an expert in your industry. Call us today at 301-904-3366 or and Calvert Counties each issue. awareness and recognition, and create email oda@fairfaxwoman.com to schedule an appointment to learn more. Visit us online at fairfaxwoman.com. loyalty and trust with current customers and prospects.
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SWM hand-delivers copies to more than 100 locations throughout Southern Maryland.
Our publications are strategically placed in grocery stores, retail shops, salons, spas, cafes, libraries, hospitals and waiting rooms across the region.
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We are celebrating 14 years of publishing in 2021!
Consistent marketing, both in print and online, positions your business as an expert in your industry. Call us today at 301-904-3366 or email oda@southernmarylandwoman.com to learn more.
e ThisD
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